Kühlungsborn to renovate Villa Baltic without investor - Kühlungsborn's Villa Baltic to become a €32M community hub after decades of decay
The long-abandoned Villa Baltic in Kühlungsborn could soon see new life as part of a major public redevelopment. The historic seafront property, vacant for decades, is now at the centre of a €32 million plan to transform it into a community hub. Earlier private proposals for the site, including a hotel, have failed to move forward.
The city bought the villa in 2019 from brothers Jan and Berend Aschenbeck, whose earlier development ideas were rejected. Now, officials intend to restore the building themselves and create a mixed-use space around it. Plans include a new town hall, underground parking, and areas for shops, medical practices, and dining.
The project would also add a registry office, event spaces, and a local history museum. Funding for two-thirds of the €32 million cost may come from federal and state grants. However, the city must first secure approval for the scheme.
On Tuesday, the town council will review two draft resolutions to greenlight the proposals. If passed, the villa's renovation would mark the end of its long period of disuse. Previous attempts to involve private investors, including a beachfront hotel, never materialised.
The redevelopment would turn the Villa Baltic into a functional public space while preserving its historic character. With grant funding covering most of the budget, the city aims to complete the project without heavy reliance on private backers. A final decision rests with the council's vote this week.
